Diageo to Re-open Port Ellen and Brora

10-10-2017

By Whizzky Staff Writer

Nearly 40 years later, Diageo plans to re-open Port Ellen and Brora distilleries on Islay and the east coast of Sutherland respectively. Both distilleries were mothballed in 1983 and the brands have since risen and maintained cult status among whisky lovers.

Both distilleries will "distill in carefully controlled quantities", aiming to “replicate where possible the distillation regimes and spirit character of the original distilleries” Diageo said.

Diageo's reasons to re-open both distilleries include the demand from existing enthusiasts, and is also a reflection of the strong growth in the single malt Scotch market. Both distilleries will make Diageo's smallest distillers, with Oban, producing 800 000 litres per year.

Diageo will spend £35 million on resurrecting these distilleries. Brora's resurrection includes renovation on old buildings and new worm baths. Port Ellen will feature new buildings, new stills and restoration of old buildings.

Nick Morgan, Diageo’s head of whisky outreach, said “This is a truly exceptional moment in Scotch whisky”.